Lionel Messi wasted no time returning to club football after an emotional farewell to his Argentina career, scoring twice to inspire Inter Miami to a convincing 4-0 victory over D.C. United.
Just four days after scoring his 126th and final goal for Argentina in a friendly against Benin in Buenos Aires, the 39-year-old produced another outstanding performance to remind everyone why he remains one of football’s biggest stars.
The result was also a major boost for Miami’s ambitions as the club continues its push to defend the MLS Cup title.
Luis Suárez set the tone with two first-half goals before Messi added his name to the scoresheet shortly after the break. In the 47th minute, the Argentine finished from close range after receiving a well-timed assist from his former Barcelona teammate.
Messi’s second goal was even more impressive. Showing the close control, quick footwork and composure that have defined his career, he danced past D.C. United defenders before cutting inside and placing the ball into the bottom corner.
The brace took Messi’s league-leading tally to 23 goals for the season, strengthening his position as the leading contender for a third consecutive MLS Most Valuable Player award.
He also has 13 assists in 2026, giving him an outstanding contribution to Miami’s attacking output. The Argentine has now registered at least one goal or assist in 10 consecutive MLS matches, the longest such run of his career.
Miami’s victory lifted the team back into second place in the Eastern Conference and strengthened its chances of securing a top-four playoff position, which would provide the advantage of playing at home during the postseason.
Despite bringing his international career to an emotional close, Messi has no immediate plans to step away from club football. His contract with Inter Miami runs through 2028.
Miami coach Cristian “Kily” González acknowledged that Argentina would feel the absence of its legendary captain but urged supporters to appreciate the opportunity to watch him in action for the MLS club.
González has also spoken positively about the possibility of Messi playing in the prestigious Copa Libertadores before retiring from professional football. The competition is one of the major trophies missing from the Argentine’s remarkable collection.
The coach praised Messi’s influence on the team, explaining that the forward’s exceptional standards push everyone around him to improve. He also highlighted Suárez’s importance, describing the Uruguayan as a committed and influential member of the squad whose contribution extends far beyond scoring goals.
With Messi continuing to deliver decisive performances and Suárez providing valuable support, Inter Miami will believe they have the quality to make another serious run at the MLS Cup.
Michael Carrick Hurt as Manchester United Record Worst Start in 40 Years
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick admitted that the boos from supporters at Old Trafford were painful to hear after his team surrendered a late lead in a 1-1 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.
The result left United with just six points from their opening six league matches, marking their worst start to a season in 40 years.
United appeared to be heading towards only their second Premier League victory of the campaign after Bryan Mbeumo gave them the lead. Their position improved further when Tottenham substitute Rodrigo Bentancur was sent off for an attempted headbutt on Luke Shaw.
However, despite playing against 10 men, United failed to protect their advantage. Dominic Solanke struck in the 92nd minute to rescue a point for Tottenham and leave the home supporters frustrated.
The late equaliser was another painful setback for Carrick, whose side had already dropped points after conceding a stoppage-time goal earlier in the season. United had also struggled to take advantage of a numerical superiority in their defeat to Manchester City the previous month.
Speaking after the match, Carrick admitted that the fans’ reaction had hurt, although he understood their frustration.
He acknowledged that the supporters wanted better performances and results, adding that their disappointment came from a genuine desire to see the club succeed.
Carrick also accepted that United must improve their ability to manage matches when they take the lead. He stressed that playing against 10 men should not become an excuse for failing to secure victory.
For a club with Manchester United’s history and expectations, six points from six games represents a worrying start. Carrick now faces increasing pressure to find solutions quickly and restore confidence among both his players and the supporters.
Vinícius Júnior Apologises After Red Card in Real Madrid’s Victory
Vinícius Júnior has apologised to his Real Madrid teammates and supporters after receiving a straight red card during a dramatic 1-0 victory over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The Brazilian forward came off the bench in the 52nd minute, with the match still goalless. Ten minutes later, Yan Diomande broke the deadlock to give José Mourinho’s side the advantage.
Vinícius then appeared to have doubled Madrid’s lead after converting Jude Bellingham’s pass. Mourinho even ran onto the pitch to celebrate what looked like a decisive goal.
However, a VAR review changed everything. Replays showed that Vinícius had pulled Villarreal defender Nathan Saliba’s hair during the attacking move. The goal was disallowed, and referee Isidro Díaz de Mera sent the Brazilian off.
The decision sparked frustration among Madrid’s players and coaching staff. Midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni questioned the referee’s decision, while Mourinho later failed to attend his scheduled post-match press conference.
Vinícius, however, acknowledged the disappointment surrounding the incident and issued an apology through social media, expressing regret towards his teammates and the club’s fans.
Villarreal defender Juan Foyth offered a measured assessment, suggesting that Vinícius may not have intended to hurt his opponent but accepting that the incident warranted a red card.
The Brazilian’s disciplinary punishment is expected to be determined by the Spanish football federation, leaving Madrid waiting to discover whether he will miss upcoming league fixtures.
The timing is particularly significant, with Real Madrid scheduled to face Sevilla on October 18 before travelling to Barcelona for El Clásico on October 25.
Despite losing Vinícius, Madrid managed to protect their narrow advantage and secure all three points. The victory kept them in third place in LaLiga, one point behind Atlético Madrid and six behind leaders Barcelona.
While the result was positive, Vinícius’ dismissal has created an unwanted distraction for Mourinho’s side ahead of two important fixtures.
For Madrid, the priority will be to maintain their momentum while ensuring that the Brazilian forward’s disciplinary issue does not become a bigger problem during a crucial period of the season.
